History, analysis, and unabashed gossip about the start of the American Revolution in Massachusetts.

J. L. BELL is a Massachusetts writer who specializes in (among other things) the start of the American Revolution in and around Boston. He is particularly interested in the experiences of children in 1765-75. He has published scholarly papers and popular articles for both children and adults. He was consultant for an episode of History Detectives, and contributed to a display at Minute Man National Historic Park.

Tuesday, 13 September, 6:30-7:30 P.M.Dig Boston: How, When, and Why Archaeology Happens in the Hub
While Boston’s history began many thousands of years ago, archeological investigations are a relatively recent development. City Archaeologist Joseph M. Bagley discusses the ins and outs of conducting an archaeological dig in Boston through the lens of recent excavations at Old North Church, the Seaport Shipwreck, and Malcolm X’s house.

Tuesday, 20 September, 6:30-7:30 P.M.Knee Deep in Paul Revere’s Privy: Archaeology at the Paul Revere House Lot
Archaeological investigations conducted by The Public Archaeology Laboratory, Inc. at the Paul Revere House site from 2011-2013 resulted in the recovery of nearly 10,000 artifacts and a range of landscape and infrastructural features, including drains, cisterns, privies, and sewer pipes. PAL Senior Archaeologist Kristen Heitert will show how many of the artifacts speak of the former residents themselves, such as “Home Rule” tobacco pipes possibly smoked by newly arrived Irish immigrants; and the skull of a small terrier, perhaps a pet or a practical ratter.

Tuesday, 27 September, 6:30-7:30 P.M.From Hills to Islands: Ancient Adaptations to the Inundation of Boston
Some 6,000 years ago, Boston was well inland from the ocean, but as rising sea levels poured in tidal waters around the hills east of Boston, ancient Native Americans lost no time adapting to and enjoying the change. While Martin Dudek, Senior Project Manager of Commonwealth Heritage Group, will focus on the Native American sites on Spectacle Island, he will also include a brief overview of other exciting archaeological sites worked on for the Big Dig.